Computer network technicians establish, operate, maintain and co-ordinate the use of local and wide area networks (LANs and WANs), mainframe networks, hardware, software and related computer equipment. They set up and maintain Internet and intranet Web sites and Web-server hardware and software, and monitor and optimize network connectivity and performance. They are employed in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors. Supervisors of computer network technicians are included in this unit group.

Computer network technicians establish, operate, maintain and co-ordinate the use of local and wide area networks (LANs and WANs), mainframe networks, hardware, software and related computer equipment. They set up and maintain Internet and intranet Web sites and Web-server hardware and software, and monitor and optimize network connectivity and performance. They are employed in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors. Supervisors of computer network technicians are included in this unit group.

Click on any of the Essential Skills to view sample workplace tasks for this occupation.

Skill levels are assigned to tasks: Level 1 tasks are the least complex and level 4 or 5 tasks (depending upon the specific skill) are the most complex. Skill levels are associated with workplace tasks and not the workers performing these tasks.

Scroll down the page to get information on career planning, education and training, and employment and volunteer opportunities.

The skill levels represented in the above chart illustrate the full range of sample tasks performed by experienced workers and not individuals preparing for or entering this occupation for the first time.

Note that some occupational profiles do not include all Numeracy and Thinking Essential Skills.

If you would like to print a copy of the chart and sample tasks, click on the "Print Occupational Profile" button at the top of the page.

This information has been adapted from the Government of Canada's Essential Skills Profile for
2281-
Computer Network Technicians

Discuss the technical aspects of computers and networks with co-workers, colleagues, suppliers and network and computer users, e.g. discuss malfunctions of networking hardware and software with co-workers and give instructions for repairs. (3)

Compare counts and readings to standards and specifications, e.g. compare counts and readings to specifications in order to verify that network systems and computer workstations are working properly. (1)

Collect data and develop statistics to describe the performance of computers and networks, e.g. analyze data on input and output operations to identify changes in the usage and performance of mainframes and network systems. (3)

Computer network technicians sequence their own job tasks. They integrate their activities with co-workers and colleagues to carry out job tasks, such as data recovery and the installation of software and hardware. They plan for a variety of activities, such as monitoring, testing and upgrading networks, supporting network users and responding to their questions. They reschedule job tasks to accommodate emergency troubleshooting of system failures. (3)

Make purchasing decisions, e.g. purchase supplies, such as cables and compact disks and small equipment, such as routers and switches. Seek approvals for purchases of larger, more expensive equipment. (2)

Select job tasks and duty assignments for staff you supervise, e.g. assign customer service activities to technicians who are comfortable giving instructions and answering questions. Consider the complexity of job tasks and the skill and training required by workers. (2)

Find that you are unable to maintain efficient network operations because co-workers and users are not following security, storage and backup procedures. Send out memos about the risks of such activities, implement additional security controls and speak to the individuals involved. (2)

Discover that the physical worksite does not match the layout shown in drawings. Advise customers and supervisors of the problem and complete other work until the needed drawings are available. (2)

Lack supplies for maintenance and upgrade activities, e.g. find that you do not have enough cables to set up new workstations. Contact alternate suppliers and create temporary set-ups to run workstations until the correct cables arrive. (2)

Evaluate the work performance of others, e.g. network and system administrators assess workers' technical skills by observing them as they carry out job tasks, inspecting the quality of their work and monitoring their productivity. (2)

Assess the suitability of network hardware and software, e.g. assess the suitability of exchange server software. Review data on compatibility with other software programs, adaptability to specific business needs and capability to block spam and manage mail. (3)

Assess the functionality of networks, e.g. evaluate the functionality of business intranets. Examine security and performance data to identify transfer rates, incidence of error and failure readings and number of unplanned shutdowns. Use your assessments to make recommendations for changes to enhance performance. (3)